By John Fay
The Cincinnati Enquirer

Redsfest, the Reds' big event of the winter, goes head-to-head this year with one of the city's biggest winter sports events.

IF YOU GO

• What: Redsfest. • Where: Albert B. Sabin Cincinnati Convention Center. • When: Friday (4-10 p.m.) and Saturday (10 a.m.-6 p.m.) • Tickets: $7 for adults, $5 for children 12 and under. • Redsfest Schedule

The second day of the seventh-annual event conflicts with the Skyline Chili Crosstown Shootout between Xavier and UC at 4 p.m.

"It will definitely affect us," Reds marketing director Cal Levy said. "It may mean more people come Friday or earlier on Saturday."

The seventh annual Redsfest is Friday (4-10p.m.) and Saturday (10a.m.-5p.m.) at the Albert B. Sabin Cincinnati Convention Center.

Redsfest drew 10,200 people last year when it was held in December for the first time. The December dates were used because the convention center could not guarantee January dates each year.

The club will use Redsfest to unveil the team's new mascot and promote Great American Ball Park.

Thirty-nine current players, former players, broadcasters and coaches are scheduled to attend. Starters committed to attend include Barry Larkin, Jason LaRue, Adam Dunn, Austin Kearns and Aaron Boone.

Ken Griffey Jr. is not scheduled to attend, but he showed up last year unexpectedly.

There will be a host of top prospects there - Ty Howington, Bobby Basham, Chris Gruler, Josh Hall, Dustin Moseley and Wily Mo Pena.

The Reds again will distribute tickets for autographs. A ticket guarantees a fan will get an autograph.